Product Detection Device Using Image Classification for Retail Automation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for product identification in shopping environments are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and lack intelligent automation for accurately prompting product types.

Innovation Solution

A detection method and device that utilize image processing, employing classifiers to identify product types from images and send relevant information, including confidence levels, subcategories, attributes, and expiration dates, to display devices, with features to handle multiple types and alert conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If manual product type input is used in weighing systems, then product identification can be performed, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduct identification automationVSAvoidproduct identification time
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical input system with an optical detection system using image capture devices and classification algorithms. The system captures images of products and automatically identifies product types through machine learning classifiers, eliminating the need for manual input and significantly reducing identification time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables products to be automatically identified through their visual characteristics without human intervention. The classification model autonomously processes product images and determines product types, allowing the system to serve itself in the product identification task.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If manual product type input is used, then product identification can be performed, but it is prone to mistakes and lacks accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduct identification accuracyVSAvoididentification reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates confidence level feedback from the classification model to verify identification results. When the confidence level exceeds a threshold, the identification is confirmed; otherwise, alternative approaches are taken. This feedback mechanism ensures high accuracy and reliability in product type identification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Loss of information

If comprehensive product information is provided, then identification completeness is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduct information completenessVSAvoiddetection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the product information extraction process into distinct functional modules: image capture, classification, attribute extraction, and information output. Each module handles a specific aspect of product identification, making the complex system manageable and maintainable while providing comprehensive product information.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11120310B2Detection method and device thereof
Publication Date: 2021.09.14 ARCSOFT CORP LTD
  • US11120310B2 patent drawing
  • US11120310B2 patent drawing
  • US11120310B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This invention provides a detection method and a device thereof which are applied to the field of image processing. The method includes: receiving an image of a target object, acquiring a type of the target object according to a first classifier and the image of the target object, and sending information containing the type of the target object to a display device. The method can automatically prompt a product type, thereby reducing the time of manual recognition and increasing the accuracy of the recognition.